Boost for Punjab’s war on narcotics as 2nd phase of anti-drug drive launched

WITH the goal of reining in drug abuse, the Punjab government on Wednesday launched the second phase of its flagship anti-drug campaign 'Yudh Nashian Virudh,' saying it will employ a multi-pronged approach to tackle the menace.

- HARPREET BAJWA @ Chandigarh

The success of the initiative banks on the involvement of locals. Several village defence committees 'Pind De Pehredar' were set up between August and October last year to strengthen the campaign at the grassroots level. As many as 1.5 lakh volunteers have joined the movement in just over three months. A dedicated 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' mobile application has been launched for the members of such panels, enabling them to anonymously share tip-offs on drug-related activities.